interview: Werner Aisslinger

» A beautiful design demands precise craftsmanship «

Werner Aisslinger is one of the best-known contemporary designers, whose often very artistic works are exhibited in museums worldwide. He recently collaborated with NOMOS Glashütte to create a new timepiece: Autobahn. It has now received the German Design Award in Gold.

Mr. Aisslinger, why do you think the German Design Award jury decided to bestow its highest honor on Autobahn?

When we were designing Autobahn, we wanted to create a watch that was “of the moment” and yet also a timeless, archetypal piece that couldn’t be pinned down to anyone decade. We took the design affinities of car enthusiasts and combined them with the tradition of NOMOS Glashütte to create a piece of art that could be worn every day on the wrist. I am extremely pleased that the German Design Award jury recognized our work and saw fit to award this prize.

This watch isn’t what we would normally expect from NOMOS Glashütte.

We felt that NOMOS Glashütte should speak to new customers. We really wanted to stretch the brand’s boundaries and try something new. There was a lot of experimentation before we finally got to the final product. But in the end, I believe it paid off: We have succeeded in generating fresh attention for the NOMOS brand without alienating loyal customers.

What are your favorite details about the design, and which of the three models do you wear?

One of the most striking details is the deep bowl-shaped dial, which is something that catches my eye every time. The curved edges are reminiscent of the Avus street circuit in 1960s Berlin—or of the fenders on vintage Mercedes Silver Arrows. That steep slope transitions seamlessly to the dial, a form that is echoed by the gentle curve in the sub-seconds. The dials themselves and the wide superluminova arc are also important, as well as the extended date window, which reminds me of the analog odometers on classic cars. Perhaps the most important aspect, however, is the ultra-precise manufacture of these watches. A beautiful design demands precise craftsmanship. I wear the model with the white silver-plated dial. Autobahn is truly my watch—for all times.